Question
When picking up a baby who is almost three months old from the bed, the parents notice that the baby’s eyes have shrunk and the pupils are moving upwards. At the same time, the baby sticks out its tongue and presents both hands in a surrender position. The symptoms disappear after a while. What could be the cause?
Answer
The shrinking of a baby’s eyes and the upward movement of the pupils, along with sticking out the tongue and presenting both hands in a surrender position, may indicate atypical tic episodes, which require a doctor’s face-to-face detailed observation. If necessary, blood calcium levels should be checked to rule out hypocalcemia symptoms, and a 24-hour dynamic electroencephalogram should be conducted to exclude abnormal discharge of brain cells. If a tic diagnosis is confirmed, symptomatic anti-inflammatory medication may be required for treatment.